Workers who have worked out of the Ronald Reagan Building in Washington will be allowed into the facility on Feb. 27 or Feb. 28 to retrieve their personal belongings.
After showing an identification card to security guards or law enforcement personnel, the workers will go through metal detectors and x-ray machines, according to the notice.
“Staff will then be escorted to their workspace, where they will be permitted to collect their personal items. Staff will be given approximately 15 minutes to complete this retrieval and must be finished removing items within their time slot only,” the notice states. “Staff with a significant amount of personal belongings to retrieve must be cognizant of time; however, flexibility may be granted in select circumstances with the approval of the Office of Security.”
Personnel were warned against carrying prohibited items such as firearms, explosives, and nunchucks.
USAID, which administers foreign assistance, placed all staffers on administrative leave on Sunday. The agency said it was also engaging in layoffs of about 1,600 personnel who are based in the United States.
“Designated essential personnel who are expected to continue working will be informed by Agency leadership,” the agency said in a previous notice. “For overseas personnel, USAID intends a voluntary Agency-funded return travel program and other benefits. USAID is committed to keeping its overseas personnel safe. Until they return home, personnel will retain access to Agency systems and to diplomatic and other resources.”
Rubio has also decided to terminate approximately 4,100 State Department awards while keeping 2,700 in place.
